In episode 69 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, Integrated Diabetes Services founder, Gary Scheiner sits down with his personal endocrinologist to discuss what it takes to build a successful patient/provider relationship.

Listen to Gary’s conversation with Dr. Koch and learn how to build a successful partnership with your doctor, how to get the most out of your time with your endocrinologist and learn about the areas of care that even Gary could improve on.

Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES is the founder and Clinical Director of Integrated Diabetes Services. An award-winning Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist, Master’s-level Exercise Physiologist, and person with type-1 diabetes since 1985, Gary Scheiner has dedicated his professional life to improving the lives of people with insulin-dependent diabetes. He was named 2014 Diabetes Educator of the Year by the American Association of Diabetes Educators.

Gary earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Washington University in St. Louis and a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology from Benedictine University. He received his diabetes training with the world-renowned Joslin Diabetes Center. Gary serves on the faculty of several prominent organizations and the clinical advisory boards for a number of diabetes device manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies.

Cheryl Koch, MD is a diabetes & metabolism endocrinologist in Bryn Mawr, PA and has over 35 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Koch has extensive experience in Thyroid Disorders, Diabetes & Glucose Monitoring, and Osteoporosis & Screening. She graduated from Penn State University College of Medicine in 1989. She is affiliated with medical facilities such as Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Lankenau Medical Center. .

✔️Every diabetes patient is different.

✔️Your doctor is human too.

✔️The value of making small changes.

✔️Your doctor’s job is to help. You don’t have to be perfect.

✔️Find an endo that is interested in you and matches your needs.

00:50 Welcome and Introduction

07:56 The appeal of endocrinology

10:04 Staying up-to-date with diabetes advances

12:46 Getting the most out of your endo visits

15:31 When it’s okay to break up with your endo

17:40 The value of CDCES in diabetes education

18:54 Areas that Gary Scheiner struggles with in his diabetes care

23:57 Dr. Koch’s parting advice for building trust with your endo

How To Find a Health Care Team You Love – Integrated Diabetes Services

The Power of a Team in Your Diabetes Weight Loss Journey – Integrated Diabetes Services

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ , or email info@integrateddiabetes.com

If this episode helped you, take a moment to leave a short review. We love to hear from you! And then be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode!

Disclaimer

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.

In this episode of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, Integrated Diabetes Services clinicians, Gary Scheiner and Dana Roseman explore the impact of protein on people living with diabetes. the role and impact of protein in the lives of people with diabetes.

Listen as they share science-backed answers to common questions about protein’s role in blood sugar management, ideal protein sources, dietary balance, and long-term health.

Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES is the owner and Clinical Director of Integrated Diabetes Services. He is an award-winning Certified Diabetes Educator, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist and person with type-1 diabetes since 1985. Gary is also actively involved with many diabetes related organizations as a volunteer and clinical advisor.

Dana Roseman, MPH, CDCES, RDN, LDN, is the Director of Technology and Applied Research for Integrated Diabetes Services. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, she has spent nearly 20 years improving diabetes care through technology, research, and patient education—including expertise with insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors, and hybrid closed-loop systems.

✔️Protein requires you to use the entire alphabet of amino acids.

✔️The value of having a consistent amount of daily protein.

✔️Protein becomes more important as you age.

00:51 Welcome and Introduction

02:51 The role of protein in a healthy body

04:18 Better sources of protein

07:50 How much protein is enough for YOU?

11:28 What you should know about protein supplements

13:24 Bolusing for protein

18:51 Are you getting enough protein?

21:56 Can you ever have too much protein?

24:57 What you need to remember about protein and type 1 diabetes

Protein List from Integrated Diabetes Services

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ , or email info@integrateddiabetes.com

If this episode helped you, take a moment to leave a short review. We love to hear from you! And then be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode!

Disclaimer

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.

In this year-end special, host Gary Scheiner shares top moments from your three favourite episodes!

Number 3…Clinicians offer practical advice on glucose management in “Food, Technology, and Insulin.”

Number 2… Riva Greenberg discusses the illusion of perfect glucose control, challenging conventional thinking.

And the fan-favourite for 2025 was the episode when Gary and Dana Roseman compare leading CGMs in “Libre 3 vs Dexcom G7.” This beloved podcast helping listeners make informed choices.

Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES is the owner and Clinical Director of Integrated Diabetes Services. He is an award-winning Certified Diabetes Educator, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist and person with type-1 diabetes since 1985. Gary is also actively involved with many diabetes related organizations as a volunteer and clinical advisor.

Jennifer Smith, RD, LD, CDCES is the Director of Lifestyle and Nutrition for Integrated Diabetes Services. She is renowned for her expertise in nutrition, diabetes education, and athletic performance. Having lived with type 1 diabetes since childhood, Jennifer offers unique insight into day-to-day diabetes management, pregnancy, sports nutrition, and technology integration.

Dana Roseman, MPH, CDCES, RDN, LDN, is the Director of Technology and Applied Research for Integrated Diabetes Services. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, she has spent nearly 20 years improving diabetes care through technology, research, and patient education—including expertise with insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors, and hybrid closed-loop systems.

Tavia Vital BSN, BA, RN, CDCES is the Director of Intensive Diabetes Management for Integrated Diabetes Services. Tavia is a Registered Nurse, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and Certified Trainer on most makes/models of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems. Having lived with type one diabetes for over 40 years, she understands that each person’s experiences and needs are unique.

Riva Greenberg is a multi-time author, columnist, and blogger. She has lived with type 1 diabetes for over 50 years and has presented her “Flourishing Approach” to healthcare professionals and people with diabetes all over the world.

✔️80% of your management is what you do over and over.

✔️Why it is impossible to “control” your blood sugars, but how you can positively influence them.

✔️The value of data when managing your diabetes care.

00:15 Welcome and introduction

02:28 Understanding your insulin

8:08 The value of understanding your typical meals

10:13 Meet Riva Greenberg

12:18 Why can’t diabetes and blood sugar levels be controlled?

15:25 Glucometer commercials should picture readings of 283 mg/dl

19:24 The evolution of CGMs

22:11 Dexcom G7 vs Libre 3+

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ , or email info@integrateddiabetes.com

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

Disclaimer

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.

In Episode 64 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, Integrated Diabetes Services clinician Kristi Paguio sits down with Amy Sczepanski to discuss her remarkable mental health journey.

Amy candidly reflects on her experiences moving beyond suicide attempts to building a fulfilling life, highlighting pivotal moments that reshaped her path. The conversation delves into the transformative power of therapy, emphasizing the importance of addressing both mental and physical aspects of healing.

Together, Kristi and Amy explore how unconditional love, effective medication, and actively seeking support from the medical community play essential roles in overcoming despair and fostering well-being.

Listeners gain insight into the significance of self-acceptance, the value of supportive relationships, and practical strategies for nurturing mental health while living with type 1 diabetes.

Important Notice: This episode contains frank discussions about mental health crises, including suicide, as well as strong language.

Kristi Paguio LMSW, CDCES, CSOWM is a licensed clinical social worker, diabetes care and education specialist, and certified specialist in obesity and weight management. Kristi has been working in the field of diabetes since 2007 and has had the privilege of working with people across the lifespan who are impacted by diabetes. She has experience working with adults, children, athletes, pregnancy, and weight management.

Kristi was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2000 and has specialized in the mental and emotional aspects of diabetes since that time.

Amy Sczepanski has been navigating life with diabetes since 1997 and is now adventuring her way from the redwoods of Eureka, California to her new home in Pennsylvania. Amy brings energy, empathy, and a sense of humor to her new role at Integrated Diabetes Services working with clients and clinicians alike. She is a proud cat mom, avid lover of all things outdoors, and is happily diving into work that she loves.

✔️How people hide their emotional pain behind their diabetes.

✔️Mental health struggles are hard to discuss with others.

✔️ When your mental health isn’t doing well, your diabetes won’t be doing well either.

✔️Professional therapy is more valuable than you think.

✔️There is no shame in taking medication for your brain health.

00:15 Welcome and introductions

03:10 Introduction to Amy's Journey

07:35 The Turning Point: A Cry for Help

13:26 Finding the helpers

15:22 Amy’s path of self abuse

18:42 The baby steps to Amy's healing journey

23:06 The Power of Shared Stories

25:33 Diabetes is the burden, not you!

27:57 Finding the right tools with your healthcare team

31:51 Tips for improved mental and physical well-being

35:13 The IDS team gets it

39:01 Final thoughts

Jenny Smith, Integrated Diabetes Services

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

If you’re looking for real, personalized support for life with diabetes, you’re in the right place. Our team brings 269+ years of lived experience and 172+ years of professional expertise to the table—and we don’t say “we get it” lightly. Nearly 90% of our clinicians live with type 1 diabetes themselves, so when we talk about carb counting at midnight or troubleshooting a stubborn sensor… we’ve been there. If you want guidance from people who understand the science and the lived reality, give us a call or schedule an appointment anytime: https://integrateddiabetes.com/appointments/

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

Episode 63 of Think Like a Pancreas-The Podcast is part two of a two-part series with clinician, Kathryn Gentile-Alvarez and Ali Adler.

Ali shares how her family can remain sane despite having two young children with type 1 diabetes. Her oldest son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 2.5 years old and his younger brother one year later when he was just 18 months. Learn about the support systems that they have put in place that improves the health and well-being of the entire family.

Kathryn Gentile-Alvarez, MS, ACSM-CEP, EIM II, CPT, CSNC, CDCES is the Director of Exercise Physiology, Teen/Young Adult Specialist for Integrated Diabetes Services. As a Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist and Exercise Physiologist, she specializes in sports performance, technology integration—including open-source and DIY systems—and counseling young people and families affected by type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed herself at age twelve, Kathryn holds degrees in Exercise Physiology from Ave Maria University and West Chester University, and certifications from ACSM and ISSA. Her work focuses on using advanced technology and personalized exercise prescriptions to help people with diabetes manage their health and thrive.

Ali Adler is a devoted mom who is navigating the extraordinary challenge of raising two young children with type 1 diabetes. Her journey began when her oldest son, Tom, was diagnosed at just two and a half years old. Drawing on her experience from her brother’s diagnosis during her teenage years, Ali recognized the signs and acted quickly. One year later, her youngest son, Joe, was also diagnosed, making diabetes management a central part of family life. Ali shares her story to help other parents find strength, create systems that work, and embrace resilience in the face of unexpected challenges.

✔️Diabetes always goes wrong right before an appointment with a specialist.

✔️A bad diabetes day is often just a day.

✔️ Mistakes can happen to the best of us.

✔️ Don’t skimp on your sleep.

00:16 Welcome and introductions

01:34 Tom and Joe’s diabetes diagnosis

05:23 The struggles around finding diabetes care

08:20 Investing in an Au Pair

11:58 Other childcare options

13:18 There is no way to speed up the grief process

15:38 The silver lining of a type 1 diabetes diagnosis

17:27 And then there was celiac disease

21:51 Diabetes always goes wrong when you need it to go right.

22:56 Re-evaluating a negativity bias

25:33 The need to be “on” all of the time

26:14 How IDS helped them to sleep safely at night

30:20 The most important tool in their diabetes management system

TrialNet

https://www.trialnet.org/

https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/

Three moms and a diabetes diagnosis.

Joanne Milo, Empowered Aging. Proactive Strategies for Seniors with Type 1 Diabetes

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

If you’re looking for real, personalized support for life with diabetes, you’re in the right place. Our team brings 269+ years of lived experience and 172+ years of professional expertise to the table—and we don’t say “we get it” lightly. Nearly 90% of our clinicians live with type 1 diabetes themselves, so when we talk about carb counting at midnight or troubleshooting a stubborn sensor… we’ve been there. If you want guidance from people who understand the science and the lived reality, give us a call or schedule an appointment anytime: https://integrateddiabetes.com/appointments/

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

Disclaimer

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.

Episode 62 of Think Like a Pancreas-The Podcast is part one of a two-part series. Clinician, Kathryn Gentile-Alvarez speaks with Ali Adler about raising two toddlers with type 1 diabetes.

Ali shares how she diagnosed her oldest son when he was 2.5 years old and his younger brother one year later when he was just 18 months. Learn about the emotional impact that it has had on this young family, as well as the steps that they have taken towards finding technology improves the health and well-being of the entire family.

Kathryn Gentile-Alvarez, MS, ACSM-CEP, EIM II, CPT, CSNC, CDCES is the Director of Exercise Physiology, Teen/Young Adult Specialist for Integrated Diabetes Services. As a Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist and Exercise Physiologist, she specializes in sports performance, technology integration—including open-source and DIY systems—and counseling young people and families affected by type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed herself at age twelve, Kathryn holds degrees in Exercise Physiology from Ave Maria University and West Chester University, and certifications from ACSM and ISSA. Her work focuses on using advanced technology and personalized exercise prescriptions to help people with diabetes manage their health and thrive.

Ali Adler is a devoted mom who is navigating the extraordinary challenge of raising two young children with type 1 diabetes. Her journey began when her oldest son, Tom, was diagnosed at just two and a half years old. Drawing on her experience from her brother’s diagnosis during her teenage years, Ali recognized the signs and acted quickly. One year later, her youngest son, Joe, was also diagnosed, making diabetes management a central part of family life. Ali shares her story to help other parents find strength, create systems that work, and embrace resilience in the face of unexpected challenges.

✔️You can do everything right and things can still go wrong.

✔️It is okay to embrace technology at your own speed.

✔️The grief of a diabetes diagnosis lingers.

✔️Even seasoned type 1 clinicians find the toddler years a special challenge.

00:16 Welcome and Introductions

02:00 Tom and Joe's diabetes diagnosis stories

06:03 The impact of diabetes diagnosis on the family’s emotional health.

07:04 The decision to test for antibodies…or not

08:12 One diabetes is not like the other.

09:53 The unique diabetes challenges of toddlers and small children

12:21 Kathyrn’s diabetes journey

16:06 The technology journey is a marathon

24:56 Taking a diabetes technology break

TrialNet

https://www.trialnet.org/

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ , or email info@integrateddiabetes.com

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

Disclaimer

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.